Dear Guests at the SCEN Icebreaker Lecture 2016,

You will all remember this superb occasion and the stimulating talk by Stephen Perry, Chairman of the 48 Group Club - the Icebreakers - and his respondent and Deputy Chairman, Keith Bennett, chaired so effectively by Professor Tariq Durrani, and with an excellent vote of thanks by Eric Balish. Many of you have been asking for the text which underpinned Stephen's eloquent address: it is attached.

I have received so many comments about the occasion. How about this, from Archie McGlynn (former HM Chief Inspector of Education in Scotland; Founder Director of the Hong Kong Schools Self-Evaluation Network and of the Hong Kong Scotland School Improvement Partnership):

Superb evening. Your two speakers were special, so much knowledge and practical know-how and gravitas.

I learned so much. Both are original thinkers and modest too.

Here is a selection of adjectives from other commentators:

• Chair's advice produced short and clear questions

• Incredibly insightful

• Immensely knowledgeable and thought-provoking

• Fascinating

• Enlightening

Mr Pan Xinchun, the Chinese Consul General, was delighted that Stephen's lecture was based on his deep knowledge of China and on his seeking to understand China's perspective and planning.

For your diaries: the SCEN Lecture 2016, in association with The Royal Society of Edinburgh, will take place again in the glorious surroundings of The Royal Society of Edinburgh on Friday 4 November 2016:

• 5.30 pm  Registration and Tea

• 6.00 pm  Lecture by James Anderson, Investment Manager and Senior Partner of Baillie Gifford:Investing in China Today and Tomorrow,followed by Q&A and discussion

• 7.15 - 8.00 pm  Drinks and networking

I hope you can come!